Deck 2a
Dive Into the Heart of Maritime Innovation!
At the center of this gallery, the spectacular Ocean Planet Theater (also known as NOAA’s Science on a Sphere) brings our planet to life in stunning, immersive visuals. Explore the fascinating world of containerized shipping and towering cranes—watch how massive cargo is loaded and unloaded with precision and power. Uncover the mysteries of famous shipwrecks in Mobile Bay, then head up to the balcony over the ship’s stern for a dazzling laser light show mapping Gulf exploration and global trade routes on a giant, billboard-sized world map. Adventure and discovery await at every turn!
Accessible for the visually impaired. Some exhibits will needs assistance from sighted person to interpret the text.
Nautical Knots: Become a Master of the Sea!
Think you’ve got what it takes to sail like a seasoned mariner? Step right up and challenge yourself to tie the most essential sailor’s knots—from the slick “figure-eight” to the reliable “clove hitch” and the legendary “bowline.” Show off your skills, master these time-tested knots, and earn your official mariner stripes on the spot!
Beneath the Bay: Explore the Secrets of Mobile Bay’s Sunken Treasures!
Dive deep into the mysterious underwater world of Mobile Bay, where over 100 shipwrecks lie frozen in time—from daring Spanish conquistadors to modern vessels lost at sea. Uncover captivating stories and pinpoint the exact locations of these legendary wrecks that have shaped the rich and adventurous maritime history of the region. Ready to discover what lies beneath?
Cargo Conductor: Command the Chaos of the Busy Port!
Step up and take charge as a “cargo conductor” in this high-energy challenge! Master the art of moving massive loads with precision—operate towering cranes, rev up forklifts, and control conveyor belts to keep the flow of goods moving swiftly from ship to shore…and beyond. Experience the thrilling behind-the-scenes dance that powers global trade!
Hidden Highways: Navigate America’s Secret Waterways!
Embark on a journey through the nation’s incredible river system—discover how goods shipped from Gulf ports travel hundreds of miles north through winding inland waterways. Track your cargo’s epic route, watch the miles stack up, and experience the rise and fall of elevation as your shipment glides over bridges, locks, and scenic river bends. It’s a voyage through America’s hidden highways you won’t want to miss!
What’s Inside?: Unlock the Journey of the Mighty Container!
Step inside the fascinating world of container shipping with this interactive multimedia adventure. Discover how these giant metal boxes voyage across vast oceans, carrying everything from everyday essentials to priceless global treasures. See how they connect ports, people, and products—powering the heartbeat of world trade like never before!
Ships Ahoy: Take the Helm of a Naval Patrol Craft or Tugboat!
Climb aboard and command the Patrol Craft Fast (PCF)—a sleek, lightweight aluminum vessel once used by the U.S. Navy for high-speed, high-stakes missions during the Vietnam War. Feel the power and precision of this legendary craft, built for counter-insurgency and coastal operations. Though retired from frontline duty, its legacy lives on through cutting-edge ships built by Austal right here on the Gulf Coast.
Prefer a different kind of maritime muscle? Hop into the pilot seat of a tugboat! These mighty workhorses are essential to any busy port, expertly guiding massive ships to their docks with power and precision. They can even double as floating firefighters in an emergency. Whether you’re on a mission or on the move, it’s time to steer into action!
Comings and Goings: Set Sail on a Journey Through Time and Trade!
Step onto a towering two-story interactive world map and embark on a captivating voyage through history! Navigate the epic routes of Spanish, French, and British explorers, then zoom ahead to today’s bustling trade highways that connect Mobile and the Gulf to every corner of the globe. Experience the pulse of maritime commerce like never before!
“Ocean Planet” Theater: Dive Into the Wonders of Our Blue World!
Look up and be mesmerized by a six-foot rotating Earth, alive with dazzling visuals of our incredible “ocean planet.” Immerse yourself in thrilling theater programs centered on the Gulf, where real satellite data and stunning imagery unveil the mysteries and power of our ever-changing oceans. Get ready to explore like never before!
Signal Flags
Visitors will compose their own signal flag messages that they can then e-mail from the museum to any e-mail address. The e-mailed message includes a “key” on the back for the recipient to decipher the meaning of the signal flags.
Depth Soundings: Journey Into the Hidden Depths of History!
Step back to 1851 and witness the groundbreaking moment when the U.S. Coast Survey created the very first accurate nautical chart of Mobile Bay. See the original historic chart plate alongside a printed map and unlock the secrets of how daring early explorers mapped the mysterious, unseen depths beneath the waves. Dive into maritime history like never before!
